Category: New & Used Vehicles

It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time car buyer or have been down this road many times – you should always have mileage guidelines to help you when buying a car online! If you’re looking for a new or used car in La Crosse, WI, search FindCars.com. We make finding and researching new and used cars for sale easy! With hundreds of listings from local dealers and private sellers, everything you need to make a smart choice, including mileage, is at your fingertips.

Here’s what you need to know for setting your mileage guidelines to make sure you get the most bang for your buck:

There’s more to mileage than distance. If you were given a car with 20,000 miles and another with 80,000 miles, you’d think the car with the lower mileage was a better choice. Maybe, but maybe not. There’s more to mileage than distance. How old is the car, and is the mileage appropriate? The average 5-year-old car should have about 60,000 miles, as a typical driver puts on about 12,000 miles per year. Also, ask yourself:

Is it a “granny” car that’s older but hasn’t had a lot of time on the road?

Use the history of the car to determine whether the mileage it has is appropriate.

Condition of car. There’s more to buying a car online than looking at the mileage. Check out the condition of the car. Has it been well taken care of? Has it been in an accident or had body repair? Are there rust spots, scratches, or dents?

How many miles will you get out of it? Don’t always just look at the odometer. Stop and consider what you’ll get out of the car. Will you be primarily commuting? Is it meant for distance? Will you be driving mostly in the city or on highways? Do you plan on having the car for many years, or is it for your student? Answering these questions will help you determine an appropriate mileage range to look for.

Determining your mileage guidelines will make it easier to find the perfect car for your needs and price range. When buying a car online in La Crosse, WI, search FindCars.com. We have hundreds of listings for cars for sale near you with all the information you need to make a smart purchase.

While new vehicles right off the line have the latest features, technology, and amenities, they’re not always the best option. They can be prohibitively expensive, require hefty loans, and lose their value the moment you drive off the lot! If you’re not worried about keeping up with the Joneses and are looking for a reliable vehicle at a fair price, consider purchasing a used vehicle! Finding a great used vehicle in Decorah, IA, is easy with FindCars.com. With hundreds of listings from local dealers and private sellers, you’ll be able to find the perfect used vehicle for sale.

Aside from your home, a vehicle is probably the second most expensive purchase you will make in your lifetime. Reap the benefits of purchasing a used vehicle, including:

Lower price and less depreciation. You’ve heard it said that once you drive that new car off the lot, you automatically lose 10 percent of its value in depreciation. Consider a used vehicle at a lower cost, which will result in less depreciation.

Less sales tax. Do your research on sales tax before you head out to purchase a vehicle. Is there sales tax on vehicles in your state? Nonetheless, if you buy used for less, the sales tax will be substantially lower than if you purchased new.

Registration fees. As you well know, the model year and the higher the value of your car determine the cost of your annual registration fee/license tabs. If you purchase used (3 to 5 years old), you can save a nice chunk of change to pad your wallet.

Bells and whistles. If you aren’t one to keep up with the Joneses, then all the bells and whistles that come with a new vehicle really won’t matter. For example, is a sunroof necessary or can you do without? Really need that “new car smell?” Do you need a pinstripe placed down the side, heated leather seats, or anti-rust coating, or do you simply use your car as a means to get from Point A to Point B?

Avoid car loans. Typically, used vehicles are significantly cheaper than new, giving you the chance to pay in cash and avoid car loans and the interest that goes with it. Why pay extra for your car in interest, when you can simply drive a used vehicle and stash the cash savings.

At FindCars.com, much of the research on vehicles has been done to make your search a whole lot easier. Don’t be intimidated by the number of vehicles on the market. FindCars.com has guides and information to help you through the process so you can get the best used vehicle for the best price. If you aren’t into keeping up with the Joneses, don’t need all the bells and whistles, wish to avoid expensive car loans, registration fees, and sales tax, consider purchasing a used vehicle. The benefits are many. Search FindCars.com for a used vehicle in Decorah, IA.

With the arrival of fall, residents of Waterloo, IA know that winter isn’t far behind. Be proactive and prepare your vehicle for winter by following our fall car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid breakdowns. If you’re looking for a reliable car to get you through the winter, find new and used cars for sale in your area at FindCars.com.

Give your vehicle some extra attention this fall and be prepared for the harsh winter weather by checking the following parts of your car and performing necessary car maintenance:

Hoses and belts. Check all hoses and belts on your vehicle to be certain they’re not cracked, loose, or frayed. If they show signs of excessive wear, they need to be replaced.

Check the battery for tight and clean connections. If you notice corrosion, clean it up. Replace the battery if it has lost its charge and power.

Be certain the levels of the engine oil, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and antifreeze are all at the appropriate levels.

Brake system. Brakes are an important feature on your vehicle. Check the brake system annually. If you’re not able to do this yourself, invest the time and money into having a trusted mechanic do this for you.

Heating and air conditioning. Is the heat and air conditioning performing properly? Have these systems checked to ensure you have appropriate defrosting and heat in the cold winter months.

Check your tires for tread and pressure. Do you have enough tread for icy road conditions? Also check for bulges, bald spots, and uneven wear. Tire pressure is also important.

Exhaust system. Often the exhaust system is ignored. Be certain to check for leaks or broken supports of your exhaust system. If you hear an unusual noise from beneath your vehicle, it could be a broken support of your exhaust system. Repair immediately.

The steering and suspension of your vehicle should be checked annually including shock absorbers, tie rods, and struts. Also, be sure to check the power steering fluid.

Driving during rain, sleet, and snowstorms can be difficult and dangerous. Lights are an important part of safety when driving during these conditions. Check your brake lights, headlights, turn signals, and caution lights to ensure they’re working properly so you’re visible to others.

Windshield wipers. Replace worn or broken blades and wipers so you can see when driving during precipitation.

Following a few simple fall car maintenance tips can keep you safe, your vehicle running smoothly, and prevent breakdowns. Is your car beyond help? Finding a new or used car has never been easier. At FindCars.com, much of the research has been done to make your search easier and help guide you through the process of finding the best vehicle for you.

Whether your vehicle is new, used, old, or the latest model on the market, car maintenance is essential for proper operation, performance, and safety. Search FindCars.com for your next vehicle and then follow our fall car maintenance tips for a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Where has the time gone? Your child has gone from first steps to graduating high school in the blink of an eye, and now they’re looking for a set of wheels to get to and from work and even college! Letting them leave the nest can be hard but finding a new or used car for sale in Minneapolis doesn’t have to be. Search FindCars.com to find a great car for your grad today!

When searching for a car for your grad, follow these simple tips to get the best vehicle and deal:

Purchase used. Unless your graduate is raking in the cash with their summer job, purchase a used vehicle. Don’t set yourself or your graduate up for failure with a brand-new car and some hefty payments.

Make smart payment choices. Ultimately, if you can pay cash for a vehicle, you’ll get a better deal. There won’t be any interest charged or monthly payments. If financing is the only option, be sure to look into the options available.

Do your homework. Don’t go out car shopping not knowing what you’re looking for or anything about the vehicle. Do your research to see what scores the manufacturer and type of vehicle have. Whether you’re single, married, or have purchased a vehicle many times, it’s always best to take along another set of eyes, ears, and knowledge.

Find a trusted mechanic. When purchasing a used car, it may run great for the test drive, but suddenly, when you get it out on the highway or off to college, everything goes wrong. The transmission slips, the fuel pump fails, or you’re told the brakes need total replacement. Find yourself a trusted mechanic to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before you sign on the dotted line.

These tips can help guide you when purchasing a vehicle. Don’t rush into things – get financing in order and do your research on the best type of vehicle for your situation. If you’re looking for a car for your graduate in Minneapolis, search FindCars.com. Much of the research on vehicles has been done to make your search a whole lot easier. Don’t be intimidated by the number of vehicles on the market. FindCars.com has guides and information to help you through the process so you get the best vehicle for the best deal. Search FindCars.com today for new or used cars for sale for your graduate and send them off in style!

Have you been stranded in the past, purchased a lemon, or disappointed by a previous vehicle purchase? Purchasing a car can be challenging, frustrating, and overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to know what features you need, whether you want a new or used car, and where to find a good car at a good price. If you’re looking for a car for sale in St. Paul, MN, search FindCars.com for the perfect style, size, and price for you.

Every car buyers’ worst nightmare is purchasing a car and regretting it the second you drive it off the lot. By checking the following you can be confident in your purchase before signing the final papers.

Before you start searching for a car, take a close and realistic look at how much you can afford. It’s easy to talk yourself into taking on more than you can handle financially. Set a budget and stick to it, otherwise you’ll be in big trouble later on.

Whether you need a car for your long commute or a truck to haul materials, make sure you do your research. Not all vehicles are created equal, depending on what you need. Researching different vehicles will help you find the best fit for your lifestyle.

Check reputation. When you determine the type of car you want, check consumer reports, recall alerts, and any other information on the car’s safety. Checking a car’s reputation and reviews will help you steer clear of industry duds and find something that’s safe and reliable.

Check under the hood. Once you’re looking at a car, open the hood and check the inner workings. If you see any leaks, notice odd sounds, or smells that don’t seem quite right, move on. Not sure what you’re looking for under the hood? Get the car checked by a trusted mechanic.

Frame of the vehicle. The frame is just as important as the car’s inner workings. Is the frame solid or can you see rust or areas that have been repaired? How much would it cost to repair any existing damage? Again, if you’re not sure what you’re looking for, have a mechanic check it out.

Hoses and belts. Be sure to take a look at hoses and belts to be certain there aren’t leaks or cracks. Also check the radiator for leaks.

Test drive. Don’t assume that because the car looks good it’ll run like a champ. Take the vehicle for a test drive to check for leaks, sounds, smells, and get a feel of how it handles. Is the drive smooth or does it feel choppy? This is also a great opportunity to make sure the radio, lights, and turn signals work properly.

Negotiate price. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. If you feel the car is priced a bit high for the number of miles, age, or condition, make a counter offer. Worst case scenario, you walk away. Best case, you get a great deal on a quality car.

You can avoid an expensive mistake by doing your due diligence when looking for a new or used vehicle. At FindCars.com, much of the research has been done to make your search easier. With hundreds of listings from local dealers and private sellers in St. Paul, MN, you can easily find the perfect vehicle that fits your needs and budget!

Are you a first-time car buyer? If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, searching for a new or used car for sale in La Crosse, WI is far less intimidating when you use FindCars.com. With thousands of listings from local dealers and private sellers, finding your first car is made simple. Having trouble getting started? Check out our top 5 tips for first-time car buyers!

Weigh Your Wants vs. Needs. If you’re a first-time vehicle buyer, there’s no doubt you’re struggling with decisions and choices. It’s natural to want all the bells and whistles you can get for your money, however, balancing out your wants vs. needs is important in the long run.

Be Mindful of Your Budget and Credit. Who wouldn’t like a shiny red convertible, a muscle car, or a cute little Volkswagen Beetle? Before you make that purchase and regret it later, take a close look at your budget, what you can really afford, and your credit.

Secure Financing. If you don’t have enough money saved to purchase the car outright, be certain to work with your financial institution regarding financing before you get your heart set on a vehicle or make a deal with the seller prior to knowing your financing options.

Do Your Homework & Research. Don’t purchase the first vehicle you see or take the advice of a friend of a friend who thinks a particular vehicle will be perfect for you. Do your homework, research what the vehicle has to offer, the size and type of engine, price, reputation, and insurance costs before taking the plunge.

Relax and Have Fun. Don’t set yourself up for failure and become tense and filled with anxiety. There are many vehicles available on the market, so relax, make sound choices, and have fun with the process.

First-time car buyers in La Crosse, WI don’t need to feel intimidated. By following these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect new or used car for sale on FindCars.com. With thousands of listings from local dealers and private sellers that include all of the information you need, finding the perfect car is easy!

Imagine a relaxing drive cruising the streets with the warm air blowing through your hair and the sunlight on your face, your friends, or the date next to you. Couldn’t get any better than that, can it? If you’re in Mankato, MN and are looking for life on the more relaxed and (maybe) romantic side, find a convertible for sale on FindCars.com for all of your summer adventures.

While many feel that convertibles don’t serve much purpose or are an impractical vehicle, consider these advantages:

No blind spots. How many times have you heard or seen drivers move into the next lane in front of another oncoming car because they couldn’t see in their blind spot? Convertibles have no blind spots and give you a 360-degree view around you.

More headroom. Are you one of those taller individuals or someone who needs a little more headroom? A convertible has you covered (not literally) by allowing you to sit tall and enjoy the ride. There are no ceilings and you can be comfortable.

Classy looking. If you think you need a little more attention and just want to show off while enjoying your commute, a convertible is your ticket. You’ll have heads turning when you drive by and most of your friends and family will be green with envy.

Enjoying life. Cars don’t and shouldn’t always be practical. You’ve heard it said, “Live life to the fullest and enjoy every day.” If you’re searching the market for a car that you can enjoy, while being classy at the same time, a convertible is just what you need.

Romantic or just fun with some friends. We all know that convertibles turn the heads of many. Imagine how your significant other or friends would enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and a way to cruise the streets.

If you’re looking for life on the more relaxed side, consider finding a convertible for sale in Mankato, MN. At FindCars.com, much of the research on vehicles has already been done and is located on the website so your search is made easier. Gather up your significant other, family, or friends, and load into a classy looking, roomy convertible. Get out and enjoy the ride while enjoying life as well. Find your perfect summer convertible for sale in Mankato, MN on FindCars.com.

Have you had problems recently with your vehicle not starting? Do the dashboard lights flicker or appear dimmer than usual? Are the headlights not as bright as they used to be? It must be the frigid Midwest winter temperatures, right? Probably not. These are all signs of a bad battery or alternator. Don’t risk being stranded in Rochester, MN because of a bad alternator. Instead, search FindCars.com.

These problems happen to everyone at some point in their driving years. Either the battery has reached the end of its life and won’t keep a charge, or the alternator goes bad and doesn’t recharge the battery or supply the operational electrical requirements of the car or truck. The signs of battery or alternator problems include:

Your vehicle doesn’t start. What a drag and stressful situation. You’re running behind, and when you turn the key, your vehicle doesn’t start. Just plain dead—no life to it. The first thing to check is the battery. Has it been several years since you replaced it?

Dash lights come on or flicker and/or gauges don’t work. Typically, with a bad battery or alternator, there are some telltale signs such as dash lights that come on momentarily or flicker, or your gauges don’t work.
Dim headlights. If you’ve noticed that your headlights just aren’t as bright as they used to be, or your headlights and dash lights are brighter than normal, your alternator is probably on its way out.
Sight, sound, and smell. The alternator belt may be cracked or slipping, you may hear a growling or whining noise, or there’s a “burnt rubber” smell. All of these can be signs of alternator problems.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, take heed. Replacing the battery is a pretty simple and inexpensive task. Replacing an alternator, however, can take a chunk out of your pocketbook. If you aren’t willing to fork out some hefty cash to replace your alternator or want to eliminate the stress before it happens, purchasing a new or used vehicle may be beneficial to you.

At FindCars.com, thousands of new and used vehicles are listed through private sellers and local dealerships. You’re sure to find a vehicle that fits your needs and avoid being stranded and then stuck with a hefty repair bill due to a bad alternator.

FindCars.com has all the information and research you need to find your ideal vehicle, so searching for a new or used vehicle is very simple. Don’t risk being stranded in Rochester, MN because of a bad alternator. Instead, search for your next car or truck on FindCars.com.

Have you noticed that your vehicle is overheating, even in the dead of a frigid Minneapolis, MN winter, or that coolant is leaking below the exhaust manifold? You just might be heading down the avenue of a leaking or blown head gasket, so act quickly. If this is the case and you’re considering a different vehicle, search the listings of cars for sale on FindCars.com.

A leaking or blown head gasket can exhibit a variety of symptoms. Knowing what to watch for can help you catch the problem before it becomes costly:

Leaking coolant: When your vehicle is warmed up and you have a leaking or blown head gasket, you may notice coolant coming from around the exhaust manifold.

Overheatingengine: If you find that your engine is overheating, particularly with longer drives, it’s a good possibility that the coolant is low and the vehicle’s radiator is unable to adequately cool what little coolant is left.

White tailpipe smoke: A leaking head gasket can allow coolant to seep into the engine cylinders where it’ll evaporate during combustion. This causes white smoke to come from the tailpipe, even when the engine is warm.

White-colored oil: If, when checking your oil, you notice the oil is a milky-white color, this is a sign that you may have a leaking or blown head gasket.

Radiator fluid bubbles: A sure sign there are problems with a head gasket is if your coolant looks as though it’s boiling in the radiator and in the reservoir tank. Contact a trusted mechanic to keep the problem from worsening.

If your vehicle has several of the above symptoms, it may be best to limit the driving time and contact a trusted mechanic. If the symptoms are fewer, trying some head gasket sealer may hold you over until you can make arrangements for repair or a different vehicle. Don’t take the risk of further damaging your vehicle’s engine and being stranded because your vehicle shuts down completely.

A leaking or blown head gasket is a serious and expensive engine problem. If your car or truck is beyond repair, look for a new or used vehicle in Minneapolis by searching FindCars.com. With thousands of new and used vehicles listed through private sellers and local dealerships, you’re sure to find something to fit your needs. FindCars.com has much of the research you need already on our website, so searching for a new or used vehicle is very simple. Don’t risk being stranded due to a leaking or blown head gasket. Instead, search for cars for sale on FindCars.com.

Have you ever been at a stoplight and realized your truck is spitting, sputtering, and missing a beat? How about that unpleasant surprise the battery is dead when you need to get to work? Does your truck simply lack the spark to go another day? If you’re in Eau Claire, WI and need a newer, more reliable truck, search FindCars.com for a new or used truck that doesn’t spit and sputter or leave you stranded in the new year.

Before you upgrade your truck, check for these common issues that can cause it to malfunction, especially during our bitter Midwest winters:

Check Your Battery: Have your battery tested to ensure it’s keeping the proper charge, and battery cable connections inspected and cleaned. A dead battery is one of the key problems with vehicles during the cold winter months. Take the time to check your battery and replace it if necessary.

Prevent Moisture from Getting into the Gas: An insufficiently sealed gas cap can cause water or moisture to get into the gas of your truck and wreak havoc on fuel injectors. Fuel additives are available that can remove water and clean fuel injectors so your truck can run smoothly.

Check Air and Fuel Filters: These filters help keep dirt, debris, and other particles from entering your engine. Check the air filter every 2000-3000 miles and the fuel filter every 10,000 miles to ensure a smooth-running engine.

Check the Antifreeze: Ensure the cooling system contains the required amount of antifreeze and it tests to 35 degrees below zero to prevent freezing and protect your engine from damage.

If you check all of these things and your truck is still barely crawling into the new year, it’s a good indication you need to purchase a new or used truck. To search for new and used trucks in Eau Claire, WI, use FindCars.com. We have thousands of listings for new and used vehicles from local private sellers and dealerships. Don’t put up with a truck that spits and sputters into the new year or fails to start when you need it the most. Find your next truck at FindCars.com and arrive at your destination safely and reliably.